Warm up with a comforting bowl of Easy Black Bean Soup, a hearty and nutritious dish perfect for chilly days. This recipe is simple to make yet packed with flavor, featuring wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients for Easy Black Bean Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lime, juiced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream or yogurt, for serving (optional)
How to Make Easy Black Bean Soup:
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic, diced carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté for another 5 minutes, until vegetables begin to soften.
- Simmer Soup:
- Stir in the drained and rinsed black beans, vegetable broth, ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and flavors have melded.
- Blend (Optional Step):
- For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return to the pot.
- Finish and Serve:
- Stir in freshly squeezed lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve the Easy Black Bean Soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or yogurt if desired, and additional lime wedges on the side.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Black Beans: A good source of protein and fiber, black beans add heartiness to the soup while providing essential nutrients.
- Vegetables: Onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper contribute flavor, texture, and nutrients, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
- Spices: Ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika add warmth and depth of flavor, creating a deliciously aromatic soup.
- Broth: Vegetable broth forms the base of the soup, infusing it with savory goodness without overpowering the natural flavors of the ingredients.
This Easy Black Bean Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread or a side salad for a more substantial meal. It’s a great option for vegetarians and anyone looking for a wholesome, satisfying soup recipe.
